Bullmastiff Traits

Bullmastiff History

Occasional references to crosses between mastiff-type dogs and bull-baiting dogs can be found as early as the late 1700s, but no evidence exists that these crosses were perpetuated.

The documented history of the bullmastiff traces to the late 1800s. Gamekeepers for large estates in England needed a courageous dog to catch and subdue poachers on their land. The dog was to creep up silently and subdue, but not maul, the trespasser. The cross between a mastiff and bulldog provided a dog that combined the speed and strength to do the job.

The breed was so adept at its work that it was dubbed the "gamekeeper's night dog."

Dark brindle was preferred because it blended into the darkness at night.

Lighter fawns later became popular with estate owners who wanted a flashy looking guardian reminiscent of a mastiff.

Breeders eventually aimed for a pure breeding strain that had the appearance of being 60 percent mastiff and 40 percent bulldog.

The Kennel Club in England recognized the breed in 1924; the AKC recognized it in 1933.

Bullmastiff Behavior Concerns

Makes a loyal and protective companion.

Gentle and generally good with children, but may be overly protective of them when around strangers. As with all large dogs, dogs and children should always be supervised.

Devoted.

Not easily roused, but fearless when the situation calls for it.

Tends to be suspicious of strangers. Early socialization is essential.

Not very friendly toward strange dogs.

Good with other pets.

Tends to be stubborn. Rebels against forceful methods.

Does best with a firm owner who can combine reward-based training with good control and leadership.

Bullmastiff Suggested Exercises

Makes a calm and well-mannered housedog.

Requires daily exercise in the form of a moderate walk or short jog.

The bullmastiff prefers cold weather to warm.

Obedience training is essential not only for control, but for the mental exercise it provides.

Bullmastiff Grooming

Coat is short, straight, and coarse.

The coat needs only occasional brushing, once every week or so, to remove dead hair.

Deep facial wrinkles may need cleaning and drying.

Shedding is average.

Be prepared for drool.

Suggested Bullmastiff Nutritional Needs

Bullmastiffs tend to stay in good weight or be slightly overweight.

Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Puppies should be fed a large-breed growth food, which slows their growing rate but not final size. This may decrease the incidence or severity of hip dysplasia in adults.

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